How do I start my 1986 Thundercraft

[MotorMan101]

I just got a 1986 thunder craft with a 110 Johnson engine of the same year. I just don't really know how to start it correctly...It has a throttle lever. Under it though is a white lever that I don't know what it does... I know your supposed to hold key in 3 seconds before starting but not really sure on the rest. I am working on finding a manual but have had no luck to date.

 

[matt167]

86 engine should be a primer engine. Turn key to run and push in and release 3 times or so. Lift the cold idle lever a bit and crank it till it comes to life

 

[MotorMan101]

86 engine should be a primer engine. Turn key to run and push in and release 3 times or so. Lift the cold idle lever a bit and crank it till it comes to life

OK Sweet! Thanks so much
I was wondering what that lever did

 

[racerone]

Raise fast idle lever.----PUSH KEY IN---And hold it in while cranking it over.-----If motor / starter / battery are in good condition it should fire right up.----But do a compression test.----For future reference.---Post the numbers here.-----Install a new water pump impeller before launching the boat.

 

[racerone]

The electric primer valve was first used on 1980 models.-----Everyday there are new owners that do not know / understand how this simple device works.

 

[matt167]

The electric primer valve was first used on 1980 models.-----Everyday there are new owners that do not know / understand how this simple device works.

I thought primer models needed to push and release the key. I always push and released them. Of course I still hold it while cranking so it’s probably why it always worked for me. I still have an 86 20hp but no boat to put it on

 

[racerone]

There are many , many people who do not understand how this primer valve works.----It is NOT a pump.-----It sprays fuel into the engine when there is fuel pressure to it.----This pressure would come from the fuel pump when the engine is turning.

 

[ski2rule]

There are many , many people who do not understand how this primer valve works.----It is NOT a pump.-----It sprays fuel into the engine when there is fuel pressure to it.----This pressure would come from the fuel pump when the engine is turning.

The electric primer valve was first used on 1980 models.-----Everyday there are new owners that do not know / understand how this simple device works.

My 1978 Evinrude 90 has the electric primer.

 

[racerone]

Somebody realized how good this unit is.-----And installed it on your motor !!====It was not factory installed on 78 models.-----There was no 90 HP Evinrude marketed in 1978.-----So what is your model # or picture of your 78 model 90 HP ??